Activity 2: These Are a Few of My Favorite Things (15 minutes), Workshop 1: Leadership Journey

In "Harvest the Power," a Tapestry of Faith program

Materials for Activity

• Newsprint, markers and tape

Preparation for Activity

• Label four sheets of newsprint A, B, C and D. Post one newsprint sheet on each wall or corner of the room.

Description of Activity

In this forced choice activity, participants identify some of their own preferences and learn some preferences of others. While some participants may find the forced-choice aspect of this activity difficult, this dissonance enhances the effectiveness of the exercise and helps propel discussion.

Explain that the group will participate in a forced choice activity to learn something about themselves and each other. Point out the sheets of newsprint posted in the room. Tell participants you will call out various categories with four preference choices for each. After hearing the options, participants are to go to the appropriate location marked A, B, C or D to indicate their choice. "None" and "other" are not choices.

Call out the first category and the four choices. Once participants have moved to the different locations, ask volunteers to introduce themselves and share briefly why they made the choice they made. Provide the categories in order; they are designed to require progressively more thought. Allow about two minutes for each category, unless the conversations end sooner.

This activity works best with groups of at least eight. With fewer participants, offer only three choices in each category.

To guide participants' reflections, ask:

• What did you notice about the groups you were in?
• Did some groupings make you feel more connected? More isolated? Which categories were difficult to decide on?
• What surprised you?

Including All Participants

If any participant uses a wheelchair or other mobility aid, be sure there is plenty of room to move from station to station. If any participant is unable to move easily around the room, modify this exercise by using a show of hands and open discussion.

This work is made possible by the generosity of individual donors and congregations. Please consider making a donation today.

Last updated on Saturday, October 29, 2011.

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